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Science Council workshops with Laurence Dawkins-Hall 2022: Enroll today !!

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Science Council workshops with Laurence Dawkins-Hall 2022: Enroll today !!

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Calling all Potential Registrants!
A new style of Professional Registration, fully interactive workshops, provided by the Science Council starts on Monday 24 th January 2022, with additional dates to follow. The real time event itself has been overhauled and consequently re-designed to allow participants to interact for 50 minutes of the 90 minute workshop duration, via exercises in private in breakout rooms and both group mediated and facilitator run discussions, pertaining to all aspects of Professional Registration. Furthermore, the workshops are facilitated by utilising the media tool :Padlet and collective thoughts are consolidated and disseminated to other participants and facilitator alike by use of media polls. It is hoped that by the end of the sessions, participants will have a clear idea of how to engage with the Science Council's CAP system to commence their own applications and in particular how to collate, both pro-actively via CPD and reactively via a log, pertinent examples of practice commensurate with the five competencies A to E

The first few minutes only of the real time workshop are a recap or summary of different competency aspects like responsibilities, knowledge, and skills commensurate with each register, benefits of registration and the mechanics of applying via the online application portal or CAP. You notice I use the verb : That is because attendance at the actual workshop is preceded by and predicated on the notion that participants' will have accessed "Pre-Registration" materials, made available by the Science Council, having registered for the event via this Eventbrite link

Such materials, for example, include Science Council video aides, in which participants get to meet facilitators in person or hear discussions about how to compile CPD with a view to populating a competency form or more general Competency submission tips

Much of the workshop is devoted to a series of iterative exercises - in small private groups and/or facilitator led discussions - which address each competency and are designed to make registrants reflect upon their own work practices and assign them to each competency

There are also more structured, comprehensive materials after the workshop, as part of the :Padlet menu, as well as the more traditional and in person mentoring from the Science Council Applicant Support Mentors

So, what's stopping you? Go on, enrol today!

Laurence Dawkins-Hall LIBMS MRSB FIScT(Reg) CSci
Science Council Applicant Support Mentor
IST Assistant Registrar

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Interactive Professional Registration Workshops - Science Council

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Calling all Potential Registrants! A new style of Professional Registration, fully interactive workshops, provided by the Science Council starts on Monday 24 th January 2022, with additional dates to follow.

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Commencing your on line Science Council Application (CAP)

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Commencing your on line Science Council Application (CAP)

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Four steps to professional registration: Step 4. Apply through the Common Application Process (CAP)

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Four steps to professional registration: Step 1. Decide which register is right for you

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Professional Registration with the Science Council

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Professional Registration with the Science Council

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Professional registration with the Science Council

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Science Council YOUTUBE: Who are the Science Council?

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Science Council YOUTUBE: Who are the Science Council?

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MY NTDC Registration Video @ Glasgow: Everything you need to know about Registration Part #2

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MY NTDC Registration Video @ Glasgow: Everything you need to know about Registration Part #2

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Registration Workshop at Glasgow University by Laurence Dawkins Hall

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Please find the 2022 CPD standards here. If you need support with this, please get in touch.

As a professionally registered scientist, you are expected to engage in CPD each year. There are several things you need to consider when planning your activities:

1. Is this relevant to your current or future scientific practice and work?

2. Will it contribute to the quality of your practice?

3. Will it ultimately benefit the users of the service you provide? (such as customers, students, colleagues etc.)

To help you plan and access a range of different types of CPD which will help meet your aims, we have developed some tools, resources and general advice.

Articles

Visit our news, blog and events area to read the latest opinions, advice and recommendations from across the Registrant network, using the tag 'CPD'.

Tools and templates

Check the Useful Information box for documents to download that may help with your planning and monitoring. Also visit our page on Meeting your annual CPD standards, which has the answers to the most frequently asked questions from our registered professionals.

Events and webinars

Use our events listings to see if the Science Council, our Professional Bodies or any other partner organisations are holding events or webinars that you may find helpful.

Share your insight and experience

If there is anything you think we could improve or if you would like to contribute, please get in touch.

Image: Jopwell Collection

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CPD advice and support - The Science Council ~

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Please find the 2022 CPD standards here. If you need support with this, please get in touch. As a professionally registered scientist, you are expected to engage in CPD each year. There are several things you need to consider when planning your activities: Is this relevant to your current or future scientific practice and work?

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Registration FAQs: What do registrants want to know?

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Registration FAQs: What do registrants want to know?

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Following are a range of questions about IST and the registration process that have been asked previously – you may find them of use/interest. Many thanks to Laurence Dawkins-Hall for answering a few of our registration specific questions. If you have other questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

1.  What is a professional body?

A professional association, institute or society is an organisation created by a Royal Charter or memorandum of Association to support a specific profession. Members are invited to join a grade of membership commensurate with their qualifications and standing within the profession. Its role is to support members and promote professional standards.

2.  Why do I have to be a member of a professional body?

The Science Council licenses its member organisations to admit their individual members to the register through a process of peer assessment.
The Science Council has to ensure that everyone on their registers remains in good standing within the profession. As it has no direct contact with registrants, it relies on the professional bodies to fulfil this requirement. Each of the licensed professional bodies has a Code of Conduct and disciplinary procedures that have satisfied the Science Council and these are used to maintain the standards for each Professional Register.

3.  What is the Science Council?

The Science Council is a representative membership organisation of learned societies and professional bodies across science and its applications, focusing on the education, skills and professionalism of the science community. There are, currently, 40 members including BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), Institute of Physics (IOP), Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), and, of course, the IST.
It aims to become the leading UK voice on the skills and professionalism of scientists, having successfully raised the profile of professional scientists and increased awareness of the valuable contribution made by professional bodies and learned societies to UK science and works with member bodies, policy makers and opinion formers, and employers through advocacy and support for the profession of scientist, and the application of science for society and the economy.

4.  What will registration cost?

There are two cost elements associated with Professional Registration – 1) IST membership subscription and 2) Professional Registration fee.

1) All those applying for and renewing CSci, RSci and RSciTech registrations must be  members of the Licenced Body via which they are being registered and the annual costs of IST membership is as follows:

Member (MIScT) – £54

Fellow (FIScT) – £68

IST membership subscriptions are renewable annually.

2) Professional Registration costs are as follows

CSci – £55 for the initial application fee (which is non-refundable), £50 for annual renewal of registration (renewals falling on the anniversary of the CSci award)

RSci/RSciTech – £30/£25 for the initial application fee (which is non-refundable), £25/£20 for annual renewal of registration (renewals falling on the anniversary of the RSci/RSciTech award)

** Please note that Science Council professional registration fees and IST membership subscriptions of employees are eligible for UK tax relief, under Section 344 of the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003. Claims need to be made by members individually directly via HMRC

5.  Why do I have to describe how I do my job when I already have a degree?

The requirements for each Register are not just about qualifications. Learning about a subject is important but correctly putting knowledge and skills into practice is what makes a competent practitioner. An academic qualification demonstrates your achievement whereas professional registration recognises your career development and on-the-job learning alongside any formal qualifications. The people who assess the applications for registration have to build up a picture of your skills and how you apply them in your normal working life.

6.  What are the competencies that I have to possess?

Updated information to be added shortly

7.  Is registration recognised in other countries?

European Directive 2005/36/EC on the recognition of professional qualifications works on the basic principle that an individual fully qualified to practice a regulated profession in one member state should be treated, in principle, as qualified to practice that same profession in another Member State.  In August 2007, Chartered Scientist was accepted for the purposes of the directive as a regulated profession, with the Science Council appointed as the Competent Authority.  Acceptance of the new RSci and RSciTech followed after the pilot project had been evaluated.  A Licensed body is able to register overseas members, provided that they can satisfy the criteria for registration.

8.  What is the difference between RSciTech, RSci and CSci?

RSciTech provides recognition for those working in technical roles.  Candidates will typically be qualified to at least QCF  level 3 and will be applying this knowledge to their roles.
RSci provides recognition for those working in scientific and higher technical roles and candidates will typically be qualified to at least QCF level 5.
CSci is appropriate for staff in senior scientific and leadership roles – candidates will typically (but not exclusively) be qualified to at least FHEQ level 7 and applying their knowledge in their roles. CSci status is a well established benchmark across the professions

9.  How can I reach the next level?

If your job changes, or if you are appointed to a new job, and you are able to demonstrate competencies at the higher level, you can apply to join the appropriate Register.  Your application should include information about other changes, e.g. additional qualifications obtained, if you haven’t already notified the IST when you submit your annual PPD record.

10. I applied for RSci but have only been offered RSciTech, which I don’t think is right.  Can I appeal?

Yes.  The IST has an Appeals Procedure.

11. After I’ve sent off my application, how long does the process take?

When all the required information has been received, The IST will endeavour to inform you within 4-6 weeks of receiving your application as to the decision of the assessment, but in exceptional cases this may take up to 3 months.

12. Who assesses my competencies report?

Your competencies report is assessed by at least two other people who are already on the Register that you have applied for and who have experience in the area in which you work.  If they find an area that does not meet the required standard, they will indicate where extra information is required

13. Can I find out if someone is on the Registers?

Yes, go to the Science Council’s Registers on their website

14. Can I become an assessor?

Yes, if you have the enthusiasm, time and expertise.  Training is provided.  Contact the Registrar at registrations@istonline.org.uk

15. I don’t have a science/technical qualification at the right level.  Can I still become registered?

The exemplifying educational requirement is a science/technical qualification at QCF level 3 for RSciTech and QCF level 5 for RSci and FHEQ level 7 for CSci.  Candidates may also meet these requirements by a combination of work-based learning, other qualifications or breadth and depth of experience.  Each case is looked at individually.

16. What is the IST’s PPD?

The IST’s Professional and Personal Development scheme (PPD) is the way in which members of the IST record all the activities that contribute towards their professional development.  It is accessible to all members, irrespective of grade, but is a specific requirement for Registered members and the IST’s Registered Practitioners.

17. What is the IST’s CPD Award?

It is a structured programme during which candidates are required to complete learning logs, to demonstrate work-based learning, knowledge and experience, which are assessed by the IST.  The IST’s CPD award can be used to demonstrate CPD activity for the RSci, RSciTech and Registered Practitioner schemes and fulfil associated registration scheme competencies.  The IST’s CPD award is not a formal qualification but it does allow the individual to demonstrate work-based experience and learning.  There is a fee (discounted for IST members).

18. What is the difference between membership and registration?

Membership of the IST is open to anybody working in or interested in science and technology.  (There are different grades of membership reflecting qualifications and seniority in the workplace.)
Professional Registration is a separate process which enables suitably qualified and experienced members to be admitted to either the Science Council’s registers of competent practitioners or to the IST’s register.

19. Why do I have to pay more for registration on top of my membership fees?

The membership fee covers the costs of providing members with the services of a professional body.  The Registration fee includes a levy that is paid to the Science Council plus the IST’s costs which include the licence fee paid to the Science Council and administration associated with members’ applications and renewals.

20. How can I get help filling in the forms?

Phone or e-mail the IST office (0114 276 3197, registrations@istonline.org.uk ).  Describe your problem and someone will get in touch with you – by phone or e-mail (your choice).

21. Why should I register?

The Registers for CSci, RSci and RSciTech are maintained by the Science Council which is a highly regarded organisation.  Admission to a register provides external confirmation that you are a competent, practising professional within your chosen career.

22. How long does it take to fill in the forms?

There is no denying that the Competences Report can take some time to complete.  The purpose of this report is to enable the IST to get a picture of the type of work that you do, including your responsibilities, the underpinning knowledge that you use and your interactions with others.  This information is mapped to the standards set by the Science Council.  If the IST feels that your report doesn’t quite reach these standards, you will be notified of the area/s where clarification is required and given the opportunity to amend your report.  Therefore, it is worthwhile spending time on the Competences Report and ‘getting it right first time’.

23. What sort of thing can I include for CPD/PPD?

In addition to courses and formal qualification programmes, you can include other activities and aspects of your normal working life that enhance your professional confidence and competence.  Examples include:

Training colleagues

Making presentations in-house and/or at external events

Reading technical papers and journals

Researching new techniques and experimental methods

Devising and implementing improvements to existing practices

Mentoring junior colleagues

Developing new procedures

Etc.

If you are working for a qualification, you could select and evaluate each specific aspect that is contributing to your development and claim PPD points for each one.
More information is available in our Learning Activities – A PPD Guide

24. I am a technician so am I eligible to apply for RSci and CSci?

Yes absolutely, technicians are vital to science development, research and teaching. Completing RSci and CSci allows you to demonstrate further skills and knowledge and gives you as a technician, the recognition you deserve.

25. I have changed my position in the last 5 years. Am I able to take examples from a prior job in addition to my current one?

Yes you are but make sure you contact the registration officer to make provision for a second reference.

26. My current job is probably not so compatible with CSci as my previous position, which was more demanding and more in line with CSci competencies. What should I do??

Providing your previous more demanding position falls within the last 5 years, then as explained, it is permissible to provide 2 references and mix and match competency examples from your current position with a previous more demanding position. I would suggest however that whilst you might want to take examples from a prior position it is also circumspect to include other examples where necessary from your current job

27. Is experience in an unpaid position valid for competency answers?

In short yes. It is not about whether work is paid or unpaid. It is about whether you accrue experiences in a Professional environment and your responsibilities in that environment

28. Can I apply for a CSci if I do not hold a managerial position within my organisation?

It is not about your grading or job title it is about the actual responsibilities you discharge in your role. It is not uncommon for example for experienced personnel to be given responsibilities above their grading, e.g. fiscal responsibilities or managerial responsibilities. It is about what you personally do, not what your grading or job description might imply.

29. I do not manage teams in any capacity so am I eligible for CSci grading if I meet the other criterion?

It is not uncommon for experienced technicians to project supervise: This is classed as “project supervision “or “bench management”  and that is in line with CSci expectations, in addition to bona fide team management (at a higher grade). To extend this description, “supervision” involves managing experiments in terms of training, data analysis and design of follow on experiments; as opposed to simple “training” and then leaving the  trainee to perform experiments, decipher data and design follow on experiments. This nascent training is commensurate with RSci, whereas after care plus training is supervision and a managerial responsibility and thus conducive to CSci grading, whether you have the title “Manager’ in your job or not.

30. I am a higher grade senior technical manager who is responsible for lab based technicians but not based in the lab myself and thus not participating in personal bench work. Accordingly, how can I submit answers for competency A, namely “The application of knowledge and understanding to novel situations?

You do not need to have personal bench work to apply knowledge and understanding in a lab setting. Much else besides underpins lab function, including equipment infrastructure. In addition, Application of knowledge and understanding does not mean exclusively wet based project science. That generic statement could equally apply to working with companies, PIs and other technicians to procure for example new platforms to update a certain type of scientific analysis or working for example with estates to restructure a lab or new buildings or for example as a teaching technician in a managerial position, helping to re design practical classes.

31.  I am teaching technician and not therefore engaged in research. Do I have material that can be used to populate the competency form?

In short yes. The competencies are not geared towards research but rather generic:  Setting up classes, interacting with students, troubleshooting practical problems and redesigning classes to improve performance are just a few examples of teaching job attributes that could be used to answer multiple competencies.

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Registration FAQ’s – IST – Institute of Science & Technology

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Following are a range of questions about IST and the registration process that have been asked previously – you may find them of use/interest. Many thanks to Laurence Dawkins-Hall for answering a few of our registration specific questions. If you have other questions please do not hesitate to contac…

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Lab Innovations 2019 presentation: NEC Birmingham

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Lab Innovations 2019 presentation: NEC Birmingham

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21st Century Technicians: Challenges, insights and innovation

Laurence Dawkins-Hall, Applicant support Mentor, Science Council

With a 50,000 technicians retiring every year and an estimated need for another 700,000 technicians by 2030, the UK is heading towards an 'existential crisis' in terms of a labour shortfall. What is causing this growing deficit and moreover what can be done to retain current technicians and induce young Scientists to become technicians?

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Insights and Innovations 2019 Day 1 - 21st CENTURY LAB TECHNICIANS

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Laurence Dawkins-Hall, Applicant support Mentor, Science Council With a 50,000 technicians retiring every year and an estimated need for another 700,000 technicians by 2030, the UK is heading towards an 'existential crisis' in terms of a labour shortfall. What is causing this growing deficit and moreover what can be done to retain current technicians and induce young Scientists to become technicians?

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Challenges facing 21st Century Technicians and the Technician Commitment as a response to these extant challenges

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Challenges facing 21st Century Technicians and the Technician Commitment as a response to these extant challenges

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Lab Live #3 | 21st Century Technicians: Challenges, Insights & Innovation

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Why Become Professionally Registered? An IST perspective

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Why Become Professionally Registered? An IST perspective

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Looking to further your career?
Concerned about job security?
Feeling that your contribution and skills are not recognised?

The IST is firmly committed to enhancing professional development and recognition for technical and specialist staff at all levels and aims to help staff achieve these objectives by becoming Science Council Chartered Scientists (CSci) , Registered Scientists (RSci) or Registered Science Technicians (RSciTech), or for technical staff who feel that the Science Council's and other registration schemes are not the right fit for them, Registered Practitioners, FIScT(Reg) or MIScT(Reg).

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The Benefits of Professional Registration

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The IST is firmly committed to enhancing professional development and recognition for technical and specialist staff at all levels and aims to help staff achieve these objectives by becoming Science Council Chartered Scientists (CSci) , Registered Scientists (RSci) or Registered Science Technicians (RSciTech), or for technical staff who feel that the Science Council's and other registration schemes are not the right fit for them, Registered Practitioners , FIScT(Reg) or MIScT(Reg).

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Matrix grid Comparing RSciTech_RSci_& CSci Competencies

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Matrix grid Comparing RSciTech_RSci_& CSci Competencies

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This link has been shown with the express permission of the IST

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This Link has been shown with the Express permission of the IST

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The IST is licensed by the Science Council to award Chartered Scientist (CSci) status to appropriately qualified members.

The designation CSci is intended to ensure high and improving standards across all scientific disciplines, reflects best practice in science and sets a benchmark level throughout the science-based professions. CSci is aimed at those practicing science at full professional level and at those for whom scientific knowledge or practice at that level forms an essential element for the fulfillment of their role.

CSci is appropriate for staff in senior scientific and leadership roles - candidates will typically (but not exclusively) be qualified to at least level 7 (Ofqual) and applying their knowledge in their roles. Candidates who do not have a relevant qualification at Level 7 will need to provide an equivalency report in support of their application. CSci status is a well established benchmark across the professions.

Applicants need to meet the level of competence for the level of professional registration they are applying for. To develop the level of competence required for CSci, we find that it normally takes around 5 years of relevant work experience.

If accepted as a Chartered Scientist, you will be entitled to the use the letters CSci after your name, subject to payment of an annual fee and on a yearly basis you will be required to re-validate your registration by demonstrating that you are still professionally active and that you have engaged in Professional and Personal Development.

Click on the relevant heading below for more information.

Minimum Criteria for Chartered Scientist (CSci) with the IST

You must satisfy all the following:

a) be a professional member of the IST (i.e. Fellow or Member)
b) be able to demonstrate the following competencies

Application of knowledge and understanding:
Identify and use relevant scientific understanding, methods and skills to complete tasks and address well defined problems.

Personal responsibility:
Exercise personal responsibility in planning and implementing tasks according to prescribed protocols.

Interpersonal skills:
Demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Professional practice:
Apply appropriate theoretical and practical methods

Professional standards:
Demonstrate a personal commitment to professional standards

c) hold a relevant qualification at level 7 (Ofqual). Applicants who do not hold a relevant qualification at level 7 will be required to provide an Equivalency Report that details how they have achieved a comparable standard by learning through work, other qualifications or a combination of both and we have a qualifications/experience mapping document that may help with this.

d) have sufficient science-related relevant work experience, we find that it normally takes around 7 years of relevant work experience.
Code of Conduct
Chartered Scientists will agree to be bound by the Code of Professional Conduct of the IST.
Cost
Fees for registration and registration renewal are payable on an annual basis, the registration fee being in addition to the annual IST membership fee. The registration fees are as follows:
Initial registration is now £55 - (this includes the Science Council registration levy).
Annual renewal of registration is currently £50, and this amount includes the Science Council registration levy.
** Please note that Science Council professional registration fees and IST membership subscriptions of employees are eligible for UK tax relief, under Section 344 of the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003. Claims need to be made by members individually directly via HMRC
Applying for CSci

If you wish to apply for Chartered status and feel that you will be able to comply with all the requirements for registration then there are two application routes available.
1. You can submit the following to the IST (with whom you must already have existing membership).

An application form

An extended CV (useful CV templates are available at Europass's website)

Copies of original qualification certificates, if not already supplied with your initial IST membership application Please do not send original certificates.

A Competencies report

If candidates are not qualified to level 7 level then a level 7 Equivalency Report is required

A PPD report for the last year

Details of two referees

Payment

Further information about registration and all the relevant forms are available from the Downloads section on this page.

Your application will be reviewed by 2 of the IST assessors, who will be registered at the same level as the registration level being applied for, or higher. The IST will endeavour to inform you within 4-6 weeks of receiving your application as to the decision of the assessment, but in exceptional cases this may take up to 3 months. This may be one of three outcomes:

The application is successful - the IST will register you with the Science Council. To remain on the register you must renew your IST membership and registration each year.

The application was deemed partially successful by the IST assessors, but more evidence is needed to meet with the requirements. You have three months to supply this evidence or your application will be rejected. Upon receipt of additional required evidence your assessors will reassess leading to either a successful application or a failed application.

The application was unsuccessful and you will not be registered. We will issue advice as to how you may achieve registrant status in the future. Registrants have the right to appeal if they consider that the registration application outcome is incorrect (see IST Appeals Procedure)

2. You may apply through the Science Council's online system
The Science Council's online application system can be used you to complete your registration application, and once submitted your application will be assessed by their team of assessors. You can apply through them whether you are already an IST member or not. If you are not an IST member then both registration application and IST membership application can be dealt with simultaneously. Applications submitted directly to the Science Council will be assessed by their assessors, rather than through the IST. For more information about the Science Council's online application process please visit the Science Council's website.

Renewing your CSci Registration

Members wishing to retain their CSci designation must do so annually by keeping and submitting a continuous, up-to-date and accurate record of their PPD activities which:

1. demonstrates that their PPD activities are a mixture of learning activities relevant to current or future practice;

2. seeks to ensure that their PPD has benefited the quality of their practice;

3. seeks to ensure that their PPD has benefited the users of their work (employee, customer, student etc);

4. they can present as a written profile containing the evidence of their PPD on request.

The PPD record should be submitted on the IST's standard PPD form along with a registration renewal form and the necessary registration renewal fee. Please note that your IST membership will also need to remain up-to-date and payment for renewal of the membership subscription will also need to be made (the amount being dependent on your IST membership level).

It is the registrant's responsibility to ensure that renewal is completed by the relevant date, but the IST will endeavour to provide a reminder one month before the renewal date.

Further details about the renewal process and the relevant forms and costs are available from the Downloads section on this page.

Volunteering

The IST and the Science Council are always keen to encourage registrants to develop and once you are a registered Scientist you can choose to extend your skills and support others to become registered by becoming an assessor and/or a registrant Champion.

If you wish to volunteer to help:

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The IST is licensed by the Science Council to award Chartered Scientist (CSci) status to appropriately qualified members. The designation CSci is intended to ensure high and improving standards across all scientific disciplines, reflects best practice in science and sets a benchmark level throughout the science-based professions.

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Professional registration with the Science Council provides independent recognition of your skills, meeting the standards required to join the global community of professional scientists.

There are many benefits of professional registration:

Get recognised

Registration recognises your knowledge and experience in addition any other qualifications you may have. Professional registration captures on-the-job experience and shows the level of competence you have as a practising scientist. It also demonstrates your commitment to integrity, regard for public interest and responsibility for others.
"Being a registered professional with the Science Council has provided me with a lot more confidence in my abilities and knowledge." Hayley Pincott, RSciTech
Find out which register is right for you.

Reflect and shine

What do you do day-to-day that no one else can?

Applying for professional registration supports and encourages you to reflect on what you have achieved in your career so far. Chartership and registration recognises what you do every day - it's a process that will build your confidence as a practising scientist.
"Professional registration for me is a journey, a constant reminder of enhancing my experiences to maintain professional development throughout the year." Eesha Vyas CSci, Glaxo Smith Kline. Find out more about the application process.
Demonstrate your ethical credentials

Registration tells others that you are committed to working to high ethical standards and gives them trust and confidence in you as a professional scientist.

By becoming registered, professional scientists agree to be bound by the Science Council's Model Rules of Conduct for Registrants as well as the code of professional conduct of your Licensed Professional Membership Body.

Find out more about the Code of Conduct.

Be the one that stands out

Registration is a mark of quality and competence that is sought after by employers. It commits you to standards of integrity and professional development that help you stand out from the crowd.
"The application process involves a lot of self-reflection. It made me realise how much I have achieved and personally developed as I have progressed through different roles. It has boosted my confidence in my abilities, which has led me to apply for new career opportunities." Laura Grout, RSci, Wellcome Sanger Institute.
Find out more about continuing professional development (CPD).

Become a leader within your field

Being professionally registered is a mark of excellence. Each of the Science Council's registers reflects stages in your career as a scientist, encouraging you to work towards high standards of professionalism, skills and knowledge.
"I can proudly say that the Chartered Scientist status gave great public recognition and instilled high levels of confidence in me." Dr Shashi Rudrangi, Chartered Scientist.
Meet other registered practising scientists and read about what they think the benefits of professional registration are.

Join a worldwide community of cross-disciplinary scientists

Science Council registered scientists are spread across many different countries, but they all share a commitment to professional excellence. When you become registered, you also join this community of other registered professional scientists.

Science Council registrants have the opportunity to volunteer for us as committee members, registrant champions and more - join the Science Council at events, workshops and share your voice and expertise.
Find out more about getting involved with the Science Council Registrant community.

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Benefits of professional registration - The Science Council ~

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Professional registration with the Science Council provides independent recognition of your skills, meeting the standards required to join the global community of professional scientists. There are many benefits of professional registration: Registration recognises your knowledge and experience in addition any other qualifications you may have.

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Which Professional Body is right for me?

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Which Professional Body is right for me?

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There are various Professional Bodies in science, all with something slightly different to offer. However, they all aim to support you in your professional development.

They may offer any or all of the following:

Training and education in the form of courses, lectures, workshops or online resources

Information on the scientific discipline in the form of journals and magazines or online resources

Networking opportunities

Career advice

Support for the non-science skills required to develop your career

Volunteering opportunities

Library facilities

Meeting facilities

Depending on the level of membership you achieve you may be able to signify that with postnominals.

In choosing you may want to join a body that focuses on the scientific discipline you were trained in or now work in. Examples are bodies such as:

However there also bodies that focus on those working in an industry sector, for example:

Some bodies focus on the type of employment:

Some on the type of employee:

Some focus on the skill used:

Some Professional Bodies cover more than one aspect.

To become a registrant, you will need to be or become a member of a licensed Professional Body. You can do that as part of your application.

If you are not sure which body to choose, pick the one that seems relevant to you. Try it out for a year and then, if you want, change to another. You can keep your registration so long as you choose another licensed body.

If you do not see a Professional Body that seems relevant to you, please send us an email and let us know which body you would like to choose or are already a member of and we will see if they meet the standards for a Science Council Licensed Body.

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Which Professional Body is right for me? - The Science Council ~

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There are various Professional Bodies in science, all with something slightly different to offer. However, they all aim to support you in your professional development.

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Why did I become professionally Registered and what has happened since?

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Why did I become professionally Registered and what has happened since?

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This link is being shown with express permission of the IST

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Brief Career Background
In 1987 I graduated with a B.Sc. in Biomedical Sciences. Since that time I have secured a number of contractual positions within different areas and/or life science Research institutions through the UK and indeed the USA, viz. cancer research, infectious & tropical diseases, genetics and genomics, protein biochemistry and drug discovery & The New York genome centre. This has provided me with ample opportunity to acquire technical skills in Molecular and cell biology, genomics and drug discovery pertinent to those disciplines. Moreover, it has also resulted in me presenting posters and delivering oral presentations at both National and international meetings (anything from DNA sequencing technology to the genetics of tropical disease resistance in wild African Cattle) & industrial workshops and has culminated in more than 30 publications, including conference abstracts, peer reviewed papers and text book materials. In 2016, as a result of the above and managing technical problems on the Research Gate forum, I was contacted by a senior editor of Frontiers and invited to become a review editor for Frontiers in Microbiology (Infectious Diseases). In addition, apart from engaging in personal bench work, I have trained and bench supervised both undergraduate and post graduate students and formally lectured and run practical workshops for M.Sc. and M.res students (respectively). I have also managed and set up laboratories and been responsible for different aspects of health and safety, particularly COSHH.

In the last 2 years I have progressed from R. Sci. to C. Sci. (IST) and also been made a r egistered practitioner and Fellow of the IST (FIScT (reg), reflecting the above. As a result of Professional Registration I have, in the last 2 years, been appointed as the IST Registration champion for the University of Leicester and participated in guest executive roles for both the IST and Science Council organising and running workshops on Professional Registration. In 2019 I will commence an official executive (freelance) role with the Science council, promoting Professional registration throughout the UK, as a protagonist on their behalf.
What are your key skills and responsibilities?
At this moment in time I am on a 1 year secondment to support formal teaching of Masters students' (1 semester) and then engage in personal protein biochemistry projects as well as support 2 laboratories and supervise undergraduate students in biochemical techniques. Apart from learning how to set up and organise post graduate teaching classes (for each of the 6 modules) I will also revisit protein expression skills but in addition learn new chromatography purification skills and structural chemical analysis skills, e.g. Circular dichroism (CCD).

In both my Secondment and subsequent regular position, I will continue to promote and mentor in the context of Professional registration within the faculty of life sciences here at Leicester and resume my role as a registrant assessor for both the IST and Science Council early in 2019.
Why did you choose to go for registration?
In my case I chose to become professionally registered in order to validate and accredit the lab based and teaching skills I have inculcated and practiced over the last 20-30 years. Professional Registration however has resulted in opportunities that have broadened my working portfolio (see below).
What do you see as the benefits of registration?
In the last 2 years, as a direct result of Professional registration, my career portfolio and working remit have broadened: In particular, after gaining Registered Scientist status. I attended a training course for becoming a registrant assessor and for a short period (to resume in 2019!) engaged in registrant assessment. I subsequently became C. Sci. and by virtue of this level of registration and my publication portfolio, and securing contacts with the executive of the IST, was nominated for and then awarded a fellowship with the IST. In addition, because of Professional registration and networking with both the Science Council and RSB, I was appointed IST registrant champion for the University of Leicester. This allowed me to network and publically promote Professional registration through a series of lectures and this, in turn, resulted in me being invited to provide a lecture to all university technicians on professional registration at the inaugural launch of the Universities Technician commitment event. What is more, my efforts in this regard, have led to analogous opportunities to run workshops on registration for both the IST and Science Council and the latter in particular have culminated in an invitation to take up a freelance executive role with the Science council as an official Applicant support mentor, commencing next year.

In short Professional registration has resulted in hitherto unanticipated opportunities with one opportunity creating the next.

In other words, do it, validate your skills and create future career opportunities for yourself as well as others (by supporting the registrant applications)!
What sort of CPD activities do you undertake and why?
Putting aside the 'usual suspects' i.e. training courses to augment technical skills and, in my case a 1 year secondment, for the same reasons (albeit in more depth) my current and future CPD activities will centre around promoting professional registration here in Leicester (in my capacity as registrant champion for the IST) and also for the Science Council and IST. My acceptance of a freelance position with the Science Council in particular will allow me to promote Professional registration on a national stage. I am committed both within my Institution but also nationally to Professional registration because I believe it accredits the skills and value of technicians in the work place and also facilitates career opportunities. This satisfies key tenants of both the technician commitment and also wider Equality and Diversity legislation, promulgated through Athena Swan objectives.

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Laurence Dawkins-Hall - Chartered Scientist

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Brief Career Background In 1987 I graduated with a B.Sc. in Biomedical Sciences. Since that time I have secured a number of contractual positions within different areas and/or life science Research institutions through the UK and indeed the USA, viz. cancer research, infectious & tropical diseases, genetics and genomics, protein biochemistry and drug discovery & The New York genome centre.

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Lab on Demand #7: Lab innovations series. Completing your registration competency form 

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Lab on Demand #7: Lab innovations series. Completing your registration competency form 

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Grow your career with Professional Registration through the Science Council | Easyfairs

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My RSci Competency Form: Laurence Dawkins Hall

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My RSci Competency Form: Laurence Dawkins Hall

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My CSci Competency Form: Laurence Dawkins Hall

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My CSci Competency Form: Laurence Dawkins Hall

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Laurence Dawkins Hall fully inclusive Professional Registration video: Everything you need to know

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Laurence Dawkins Hall fully inclusive Professional Registration video: Everything you need to know

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This short piece is designed to promote and clarify a 2 hour long, interactive Professional Registration work shop that Laurence Dawkins-Hall provided on behalf of the NTDCin his capacity as Special Advisor for Registration and STEM. The workshop is meant to act as a pro-forma for other workshops, provided to Partner affiliates of the NTDC and in all cases will be followed up by personal mentoring, as elaborated in this NTDC news blog item. The Workshop and associated video cover all aspects of Professional Registration, from benefits to defining the three registers (viz. RSciTech, RSci and CSci) to the mechanics of the Science Council's online application portal (CAP ) to completion of the main stay of the CAP application, namely the Competencies Form. Furthermore, this video is a pro-forma for analogous workshops Laurence will also provide for the IST, in his capacity as Assistant Registrar and principal Registration Mentor.

The more interactive aspects of this Registration video are rooted in sessions being trialled by the Science Council, which include anonymised polls, breakout rooms and registration learning aides, produced by the Science CouncilIt is hoped, going forward, that experimenting this delivery format will lead to better audience participation in new and improved sessions for both the IST and NTDC.

The video was generated during a Technician Commitment Event for technical staff at the University of Glasgow and we acknowledge their contribution and participation in this video.
Laurence Dawkins-Hall FIScT CBiol CSci

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This short piece is designed to promote and clarify a 2 hour long, interactive Professional Registration work shop that Laurence Dawkins-Hall provided on behalf of the NTDCin his capacity as Special Advisor for Registration and STEM.

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This link has been shown with the Express permission of the IST

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The IST is licensed by the Science Council to award Registered Scientist (RSci) status to appropriately qualified members.

The designation RSci is intended to ensure high and improving standards across all scientific disciplines, reflects best practice in science and sets a benchmark level throughout the science-based professions. RSci is aimed at those practicing science at full professional level and at those for whom scientific knowledge or practice at that level forms an essential element for the fulfillment of their role.

RSci is appropriate for staff in scientific and senior technical roles – candidates will typically (but not exclusively) be qualified to at least  level 5 (Ofqual) and will be applying this knowledge to their roles. Candidates who do not have a relevant qualification at Level 5 will need to provide an equivalency report in support of their application.

RSci provides recognition in its own right but can also be a springboard to CSci status.

Applicants need to meet the level of competence for the level of professional registration they are applying for.  To develop the level of competence required for RSci, we find that it normally takes around 2-3 years of relevant work experience.

If accepted as a Registered Scientist, you will be entitled to the use the letters RSci after your name, subject to payment of an annual fee and on a yearly basis you will be required to re-validate your registration by demonstrating that you are still professionally active and that you have engaged in Professional and Personal Development.

Click on the relevant heading below for more information.

Minimum Criteria for Registered Scientist (RSci)

You must satisfy all the following:
a) be a professional memberof the IST (i.e. Fellow or Member)
b) be able to demonstrate the following competencies

Application of knowledge and understanding
Identify and use relevant scientific understanding, methods and skills to complete tasks and address well defined problems

Personal responsibility
Exercise personal responsibility in planning and implementing tasks according to prescribed protocols

Interpersonal skills
Demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills

Professional practice
Apply appropriate theoretical and practical methods

Professional standards
Demonstrate a personal commitment to professional standards

c) hold a relevant qualification at level 5 (Ofqual). Candidates may also meet the requirement by a combination of learning through work and other qualifications and we have a qualifications/experience mapping documentthat may help with this.

d) have sufficient science-related relevant work expierience, we find that it normally takes around 2-3 years of relevant work experience.

Code of Conduct

Registered Science Technicians will agree to be bound by the Code of Professional Conduct of the IST.

Cost

Fees for registration and registration renewal are payable on an annual basis, the registration fee being in addition to the annual IST membership fee.  The fee for initial registration is £30 and registration renewal is £25 (these payments includes the Science Council registration fee).

** Please note that Science Council professional registration fees and IST membership subscriptions of employees are eligible for UK tax relief, under Section 344 of the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003. Claims need to be made by members individually directly via HMRC

Applying for RSci

If you wish to apply for Registered Scientist status and feel that you will be able to comply with all the requirements for registration then there are two application routes available.

1. You can submit the following to the IST (with whom you must already have existing membership).

An application form

A CV (useful CV templates are available at Europass’s website)

Copies of original qualification certificates, if not already supplied with your initial IST membership application Please do not send original certificates.

A Competencies report

An Equivalence report (if necessary)

Details of two referees

Payment

Further information about registration and all the relevant forms are available from the Downloads section on this page.

Your application will be reviewed by 2 of the IST assessors, who will be registered at the same level as the registration level being applied for, or higher.  The IST will endeavour to inform you within 4-6 weeks of receiving your application as to the decision of the assessment, but in exceptional cases this may take up to 3 months.  This may be one of three outcomes:

The application is successful – the IST will register you with the Science Council. To remain on the register you must renew your IST membership and registration each year.

The application was deemed partially successful by the IST assessors, but more evidence is needed to meet with the requirements.  You have three months to supply this evidence or your application will be rejected.  Upon receipt of additional required evidence your assessors will reassess leading to either a successful application or a failed application.

The application was unsuccessful and you will not be registered.  We will issue advice as to how you may achieve registrant status in the future. Registrants have the right to appeal if they consider that the registration application outcome is incorrect (see IST Appeals Procedure)

2. You may apply through the Science Council’s online application system

The Science Council’s online system can be used you to complete your registration application if you already have IST membership, or if you are not already an IST member then both registration application and IST membership application can be submitted simultaneously. Applications submitted directly to the Science Council will be assessed by their assessors, rather than through the IST. For more information about the Science Council’s online application process please visit the Science Council’s website.

Renewing your RSci Registration

Members wishing to retain their RSci designation must do so annually by keeping and submitting a continuous, up-to-date and accurate record of their PPD activities which:

1. demonstrates that their PPD activities are a mixture of learning activities relevant to current or future practice;

2. seeks to ensure that their PPD has benefited the quality of their practice;

3. seeks to ensure that their PPD has benefited the users of their work (employee, customer, student etc);

4. they can present as a written profile containing the evidence of their PPD on request.

The PPD record should be submitted on the IST’s standard PPD form along with a registration renewal form and the necessary registration renewal fee. Please note that your IST membership will also need to remain up-to-date and payment for renewal of the membership subscription will also need to be made (the amount being dependent on your IST membership level).

It is the registrant’s responsibility to ensure that renewal is completed by the relevant date, but the IST will endeavour to provide a reminder one month before the renewal date.

Further details about the renewal process and the relevant forms and costs are available from the Downloads section on this page.

If any further information or guidance is needed please do not hesitate to contact us via registrations@istonline.org.uk

Volunteering

The IST and the Science Council are always keen to encourage registrants to develop and once you are a Registered or Chartered Scientist you can choose to extend your skills and support others to become registered by becoming an Assessor and/or a Registrant Champion.

If you wish to volunteer to help:

IST Assessor and/or Registrant Champion, please contact joanward@istonline.org.uk

Science Council Assessor

Science Council Registrant Champion

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Registered Scientist – RSci – IST – Institute of Science & Technology

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The IST is licensed by the Science Council to award Registered Scientist (RSci) status to appropriately qualified members.

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An Examination of the Registration Competency Form

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An Examination of the Registration Competency Form

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Part II_Completion of Competency form_MI TALENT_USE THIS ONE_May 9th 2022_Most up to date for Michelle.pptx

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The Benefits and on line Application process (CAP) for Professional Registration

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The Benefits and on line Application process (CAP) for Professional Registration

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Introduction to Professional Registration_USE THIS ONE_MI TALENT_May 9th 2022_ MOST UP TO DATE_GIVE TO MICHELLE.pptx

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This link is being shown with the express permission of the IST

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The IST is licensed by the Science Council to award Registered Science Technician (RSciTech) status to appropriately qualified members.

The designation RSciTech is intended to ensure high and improving standards across all scientific disciplines, reflects best practice in science and sets a benchmark level throughout the science-based professions. RSciTech is aimed at those practicing science at full professional level and at those for whom scientific knowledge or practice at that level forms an essential element for the fulfillment of their role.

RSciTech candidates will typically (but not exclusively) be qualified to at least QCF level 3 and will be applying this knowledge to their roles. Candidates who do not have a relevant qualification at Level 3 will need to provide an equivalency report in support of their application.

RsciTechIt provides recognition in its own right but can also be a springboard to RSci and potetially CSci status eventually.

Applicants need to meet the level of competence for the level of professional registration they are applying for. To develop the level of competence required for RSciTech, we find that it normally takes at least year of relevant work experience.

If accepted as a Registered Science Technician, you will be entitled to the use the letters RSciTech after your name, subject to payment of an annual fee and on a yearly basis you will be required to revalidate your registration by demonstrating that you are still professionally active and that you have engaged in Professional and Personal Development.

Click on the relevant heading below for more information.

Minimum Criteria for Registered Science Technician (RSciTech) with the IST

You must satisfy all the following:
a) be a professional memberof the IST (i.e. Fellow or Member)
b) be able to demonstrate the following competencies

Application of knowledge and understanding
Identify and use relevant scientific understanding, methods and skills to complete tasks
and address well defined problems

Personal responsibility
Exercise personal responsibility in planning and implementing tasks according to prescribed protocols

Interpersonal skills
Demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills

Professional practice
Apply appropriate theoretical and practical methods according to protocol

Professional standards
Demonstrate a personal commitment to professional standards

c) hold a relevant qualification at QCF level 3. Candidates may also meet the requirement by a combination of learning through work and other qualifications and we have a qualifications/experience mapping document that may help with this.

d) have sufficient science-related relevant work experience, we find that it normally takes at least 1 year of relevant work experience.
Code of Conduct
Registered Science Technicians will agree to be bound by the Code of Professional Conduct of the IST.
Cost
Fees for registration and registration renewal are payable on an annual basis, the registration fee being in addition to the annual IST membership fee. The fee for initial registration is £25 and renewal is £20 - (these payments include the Science Council registration fee).
** Please note that Science Council professional registration fees and IST membership subscriptions of employees are eligible for UK tax relief, under Section 344 of the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003. Claims need to be made by members individually directly via HMRC
Applying for RSciTech

If you wish to apply for Registered Science Technician status and feel that you will be able to comply with all the requirements for registration then there are two application routes available.

You can submit the following to the IST (with whom you must already have existing membership).

An application form

A CV (useful CV templates are available at Europass's website)

Copies of original qualification certificates, if not already supplied with your initial IST membership application Please do not send original certificates.

A Competencies report

An Equivalence report (if necessary)

Details of two referees

Payment

Further information about registration and all the relevant forms are available from the Downloads section on this page.

Your application will be reviewed by 2 of the IST assessors, who will be registered at the same level as the registration level being applied for, or higher. The IST will endeavour to inform you within 4-6 weeks of receiving your application as to the decision of the assessment, but in exceptional cases this may take up to 3 months. This may be one of three outcomes:

The application is successful - the IST will register you with the Science Council. To remain on the register you must renew your IST membership and registration each year.

The application was deemed partially successful by the IST assessors, but more evidence is needed to meet with the requirements. You have three months to supply this evidence or your application will be rejected. Upon receipt of additional required evidence your assessors will reassess leading to either a successful application or a failed application.

The application was unsuccessful and you will not be registered. We will issue advice as to how you may achieve registrant status in the future. Registrants have the right to appeal if they consider that the registration application outcome is incorrect (see IST Appeals Procedure)

You may apply through the Science Council's online application system

The Science Council's online system can be used you to complete your registration application if you already have IST membership, or if not an IST member then both registration application and IST membership application can be submitted simultaneously. Applications submitted directly to the Science Council will be assessed by their assessors, rather than through the IST. For more information about the Science Council's online application process please visit the Science Council's website.

Renewing your RSciTech Registration

Members wishing to retain their RSciTech designation must do so annually by keeping and submitting a continuous, up-to-date and accurate record of their PPD activities which:

1. demonstrates that their PPD activities are a mixture of learning activities relevant to current or future practice;

2. seeks to ensure that their PPD has benefited the quality of their practice;

3. seeks to ensure that their PPD has benefited the users of their work (employee, customer, student etc);

4. they can present as a written profile containing the evidence of their PPD on request.

The PPD record should be submitted on the IST's standard PPD form along with a registration renewal form and the necessary registration renewal fee. Please note that your IST membership will also need to remain up-to-date and payment for renewal of the membership subscription will also need to be made (the amount being dependent on your IST membership level).

It is the registrant's responsibility to ensure that renewal is completed by the relevant date, but the IST will endeavour to provide a reminder one month before the renewal date.

Further details about the renewal process and the relevant forms and costs are available from the Downloads section on this page.

Volunteering

The IST is always keen to encourage registrants to develop and once you are a registered you can choose to extend your skills and support others to become registered by becoming an Assessor and/or a Registrant Champion.

If you wish to volunteer to help:

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Registered Science Technician - RSciTech

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The IST is licensed by the Science Council to award Registered Science Technician (RSciTech) status to appropriately qualified members. The designation RSciTech is intended to ensure high and improving standards across all scientific disciplines, reflects best practice in science and sets a benchmark level throughout the science-based professions.